Fellowship spotlight: Alice van Veenendaal

Alice van Veenendaal is the first recipient of the Alaska Sea Grant Science Communication Fellowship. She describes this opportunity as a perfect blend of her passion for simplifying complex scientific concepts and her commitment to supporting coastal Alaskan communities and environments. Van Veenendaal joins the Alaska Sea Grant communications team with projects including producing videos highlighting Alaska Sea Grant initiatives, expanding the program’s social media presence, and improving its websites.

Van Veenendaal is based in Cordova, Alaska, having recently relocated from Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, where she earned her master’s degree in communication and worked as a communications fellow with Hawaiʻi Sea Grant. Originally from the southeast coast of Australia, she also holds a bachelor’s degree in international studies and a certificate in women, gender, and sexuality studies. Her career has taken her around the world, with experiences in Kenya, Nepal, and Papua New Guinea.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to serve my local community and other coastal communities across the state by helping to foster greater awareness of climate change adaptation and resilience initiatives,” said Van Veenendaal. “Having moved to a small fishing town in Alaska, I have come to appreciate the critical importance of preserving healthy coastlines in the face of climate change, which profoundly impacts both subsistence lifestyles and economies, as well as cultures dependent on coastal resources.”

The Alaska Sea Grant Science Communication Fellowship provides early-career professionals a valuable opportunity to hone their skills while working alongside experienced communicators, scientists, educators, and extension specialists. Fellows gain experience in a range of activities, such as writing, developing communication campaigns, and engaging with community members and partners to shape communication strategies.

Fellows are mentored by Alaska Sea Grant’s deputy director and collaborate closely with the communications team. Each fellowship is tailored to the fellow’s goals, with work plans designed to enhance their skills while contributing to Alaska Sea Grant’s objectives.More information about the Alaska Sea Grant Science Communication Fellowship is available on the Alaska Sea Grant website.